Walton gives back to LHSF
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People in Tillsonburg sometimes call Donna Walton ‘the jewellery lady.’
Walton laughs, and with a grin says, “this is good, this is a good thing.”
Through her jewellery fundraiser at the Tillsonburg Public Library on Nov. 17, assisted by friends and her husband, Walton was recently able to donate $1,700 to the London Health Sciences Foundation, with the funds being directed to the haematology department.
“I ask people for (jewellery) donations, from Tillsonburg and when I go to Texas, for a fundraiser. People have just opened up their hearts.
"This has grown," added Walton, noting that nearly 1,000 items of jewellery had been donated for this year’s fundraiser, and with available space at the library, nearly half of that was presented.
“Everything was donated.”
Walton sold a wide range of jewellery – whatever she received. Vintage jewellery was a hot seller.
Jocelyn Symons, Development Officer, Community Events and Celebration Giving, with the LHSF accepted the cheque.
“I was diagnosed with pre-leukemia two years ago, this month,” said Walton. “I’ve been doing this fundraiser for years and years, for different organizations on-and-off for more than 30 years, and because of the special care, the compassion from Dr. Hsai, my haematologist, and the IV therapy deparment, I thought this would be an excellent way of giving back.”
Pre-leukemia is incurable, she said, however, with treatment it can be managed.
Walton was impressed by the quality service and kindness of the LHSC staff.
“They were so good and professional.”
Last week Walton had her second transfusion, and is gaining back some energy.
“I just want to thank the people of Tillsonburg because they opened up their hearts to us. Wherever I’ve lived, we’ve had fundraisers. We have lived here in Tillsonburg for the past five years and I just can’t believe how much community cooperation there is here… in this town and in this community.
“I would like to thank one and all who came and showed their support – so many faces that I see on Broadway, in the doctors’ offices, in the grocery stores… Thank you very much.”